What is your method of dog training?

Our Dog Training Programs are all based on creating a sound relationship with our dogs through a solid foundation and clear communication. We are NYC's only dog training company that concentrates on real world behavior that gets you long lasting realresults.

While we understand the value of the vast methodologies of dog training, we do not limit ourselves to any one specific style. Every dog's situation is different and we must adapt our techniques, methods and tools to get rid of the poor habits our dogs are used to, to get the appropriate behavior we are looking for.

Our company specializes in rehabilitating what are commonly referred to as “problem dogs.” These dogs are usually presenting some combination of aggression, fear, bad manners, obsessive behavior, anxiety, inability to relax, leash pulling, counter surfing, etc. A good trainer can quickly stop these issues in the short term, but the true test for a professional is getting dogs to start making these better decisions on their own without anyone prompting them to do so & whether his or her clients can handle their dogs when the trainer isn’t around to guide them.

That being said, we don’t usually shoot for the “quick fix”. Most of the time the dogs that come to us have practiced poor habits for a long time, and sometimes even years. Our job is to not only eliminate these old patterns, but also teach new behaviors until they become ingrained good habits that alter the way the dog makes everyday choices in life.

Is Blake the only individual working with my dog?

Blake will be the primary dog behaviorist and with his guidance the entire DCTK9 team will be involved in training. Our staff and Blake will be handling the dogs during feeding sessions, pack walks, potty walks, one on one training sessions, treadmill sessions, group training classes and more.

What type of dog training tools do you use?

Tools that we commonly use are, prong collars, haltis, martingales, slip leads, e collars, food, and treats. When you learn how to use many tools correctly, you never have to turn a dog away that you can't help. We use all humane tools properly and are known for helping any breed, any size, and any problem. Any tool we use, we've used it on ourselves. There are many misconceptions about the use of e collars and prong collars. Please take time to familiarize yourself with the way we are using these. You can view some of our videos here:

Do You Use Positive Reinforcement?

Yes, absolutely. We use positive reinforcement and understand the value of a reinforcement based foundation but definitely do not limit ourselves to that and make sure to use all four quadrants of operant conditioning in order to make sure that we aren't limited on the dogs that we can help, based on what they actually need. Without getting too scientific, we encourage anyone who is looking to use our training services to become familiar with us and our work online.

Here is a very detailed study that shows the effectiveness and humaneness of using all four quadrants, rather than just ONLY using positive reinforcement or using only 1 of the four quadrants of operant conditioning.

How Does the rehabilitation process work?

The process comes down to three simple steps: (1) learning, (2) understanding, and (3) acceptance. However, even though we have the same destination in mind for each one, the route we take varies with pretty much every single dog. The prerequisite for all of it though? Relationship building. That trust is key for bringing out the best in the dog. You can read the details about our rehabilitation process here.

How Do I know what program is best for my dog and I?

We have a really great blog about the different options and routes you can take for training. You can view that dog training program guide here.

How many times a day should I work on training with my dog?

We view training as a lifestyle and can use everyday real world situations as training. Holding place while visitors come over, working dogs for their kibble, using NYC to work on distractions on the leash etc.

Does Blake travel outside of NYC?

Blake travels the country regularly for seminars and working with clients.

Will we get to see our dog during the board and Train program?

For most cases this often tends to be counterproductive to the rehabilitation process so we do not recommend this. In some rare cases we may suggest doing a session or two during the dogs stay with us, to start getting the owners acclimated to the new structure and routine. It all depends on the dog's progress.

When is the earliest I can start training with a puppy?

We recommend waiting until 16 weeks.

Can you train senior dogs?

Absolutley. It's never too late to start teaching real world obedience.

Do you supply referrals or testimonials?

Yes we do. You can find testimonials from clients on our Website, Google Reviews, Trust Pilot and Yelp.

I cannot currently afford your services but desperately need help! What can I do?

Blake puts free content on Facebook, Youtube, Periscope, Blogs and Instagram pages which allows you to get started without the help of a trainer.

Cancellation Policy

For all Board and Train programs, the deposit made to reserve the dates is non-refundable.

For all Private Sessions, Group Classes, Skype Sessions, and SFS Packages there is a 50% cancellation fee, for cancelling at anytime after the payment is made. You may reschedule at no additional cost.

For all exclusive services such as Socialization Class, Overnight Boarding and Train and Play, a 24 hour cancellation notice is required or you will be charged in full for the reservation cost except in the case of extreme emergency, with showing proof.